Hillcrest Heights, MD

About the city
Geography
Climate and weather
Landmarks
Transport
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Sport and Recreation
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Education and Universities
Local Cuisine and Dining

Hillcrest Heights is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) in Prince George's County, Maryland, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 15,793.

About the city

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Full Official Name: Hillcrest Heights, Maryland .
Status: Hillcrest Heights is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) . This means it is a defined community for statistical purposes but does not have its own municipal government. For mailing addresses, it is often considered part of the larger community of Temple Hills .
Country and Region: It is located in Prince George's County, in the state of Maryland, United States . The area is a key part of the Washington metropolitan area , known for being a major suburban zone with a large concentration of federal government agencies, contractors, and a diverse, well-educated population .

Historical Names and Nicknames

Origin of the Name: The name "Hillcrest Heights" is descriptive, combining "hill" and "crest" to reflect its location on higher ground . The area was originally part of an estate called "Colebrook," purchased in the 17th century .
Nicknames: The community is sometimes simply called "Hillcrest" .

Date of Foundation and Age

Foundation: Much of the residential development in Hillcrest Heights occurred in the 1950s and 1960s, characterized by the construction of single-family rambler homes and duplexes . The land itself has a much longer history, originally being part of the Colebrook estate dating back to the 1600s .

Geographic Position and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: 38°50′18″N 76°57′35″W (38.8383, -76.9597) .
Location Context: Hillcrest Heights is an interior suburban community located just south of Washington, D.C. It is bordered by the communities of Marlow Heights, Silver Hill, Suitland, and Glassmanor . It lies in the mid-Atlantic Coastal Plain, about 35 miles west of the Chesapeake Bay and 50 miles east of the Blue Ridge Mountains .
Elevation: The elevation of the area is approximately 85 meters (279 feet) above sea level .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Primary Function: Hillcrest Heights is primarily a residential suburban community . Its economy and character are defined by its role as a bedroom community for workers in Washington, D.C., and the surrounding suburban job centers.
Economic Base: The local economy is centered on retail and services for residents, with key commercial hubs like Iverson Mall and the Marlow Heights Shopping Center . Residents are also close to major employers such as the U.S. Census Bureau in nearby Suitland and Joint Base Andrews .

Population and Demographics

Population: As of the 2020 census, the population was 15,793 .
Population Class: Hillcrest Heights is a small to medium-sized community.
Demographic Features: The community has a significant African American majority, making up over 86% of the population as of 2020 .

"City's Calling Card" (In Brief)

Hillcrest Heights is a classic mid-20th century suburb, offering a residential enclave with easy access to the nation's capital. Its identity is tied to its historic Iverson Mall, one of the first enclosed shopping centers in the area, and its convenience for commuters heading to Washington, D.C., and major employment centers in Prince George's County.

Geography

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

While there are no major water bodies within the immediate Hillcrest Heights CDP, the area is part of the larger Potomac River watershed. The Oxon Run stream runs through the valley near the area, and the historic Colebrook Manor was located in the Oxon Run Valley . For recreation, residents have access to the Bladensburg Waterfront Park, which is located nearby and features various events and exhibits .

National and Nature Parks

There are no national parks within the Hillcrest Heights CDP itself, but the area is near several significant outdoor spaces. The Piscataway National Park, which offers insights into the area's history and natural environment, is located nearby . Furthermore, the community's location in the D.C. metro area provides access to the National Mall, which, while an urban park, is an "urban planning gem" with excellent open spaces and walking paths .

Climate and weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Hillcrest Heights has a humid subtropical climate , influenced by its coastal continental position . It is characterized by warm, humid summers and mild to cool winters . Due to its inland location, summer heat and humidity are not offset by sea breezes . Precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year .

Average Temperatures

Summer: Warm and humid with occasional hot, sticky spells . Highs are typically in the 80s°F (27-32°C).
Winter: Cold but not severe, with average highs often in the 40s°F (4-9°C).
First/Last Freeze: The first freeze typically occurs in early November, and the last freeze is around April 1 .

Precipitation and Humidity

Precipitation: Rainfall is uniformly distributed throughout the year. Normal winter snowfall is around 18 inches (46 cm), though occasional heavy snowfalls of 25 inches (64 cm) or more can occur .
Humidity: Humidity levels are highest during the summer months, contributing to the "sticky" feel during hot spells .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hillcrest Heights and the greater D.C. area is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these months, temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the nearby outdoor attractions and monuments. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall offers colorful foliage. Summer can be uncomfortably hot and humid . Winter is cold, but offers the chance to see the nation's capital dusted in snow, though travel can be disrupted by occasional heavy snowstorms .

Landmarks

[Iverson Mall]

Full Name: Iverson Mall .
Year Opened: 1967 .
Description: Iverson Mall is the most notable landmark in Hillcrest Heights. It is a midsize, two-level enclosed shopping mall that was one of the first of its kind in the area when it opened . It serves shoppers from local Maryland communities and the Anacostia section of Washington, D.C. . Adjacent to it is the older Marlow Heights Shopping Center, creating a significant local retail hub .

[Historic Colebrook Manor]

Full Name: Colebrook Manor .
Year Built: 1808 .
Description: While the manor itself is no longer standing, its history is integral to the land on which Hillcrest Heights was built. It was the family homestead of the Addison family, built on the original "Colebrook" estate purchased in the 17th century . It was located in the Oxon Run Valley, about two-fifths of a mile southeast of the Washington, D.C. line .

Transport

Main Airports

Hillcrest Heights is conveniently located for air travel, situated between several major airports serving the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore regions.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): The closest major airport, located across the Potomac River in Virginia, approximately 10-12 miles from Hillcrest Heights. It primarily serves domestic flights.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Located about 30 miles west in Virginia, this is a major international hub.
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Located about 30-35 miles northeast, near Baltimore, it is another major airport serving the region.

Public Transportation System

The community is well-connected to Washington, D.C., via the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA).

Metrorail: Stations on the Metrorail Green Line are located nearby, providing direct rail access into the heart of the nation's capital . This is a key feature for commuters and visitors.
Metrobus: Local Metrobus routes serve the Hillcrest Heights area, connecting it to the Metro stations and other parts of Prince George's County.

Major Highways and Roads

Hillcrest Heights is strategically located for regional travel by car.

Interstate 95 (I-95) / Interstate 495 (I-495): The Capital Beltway, which encircles Washington, D.C., is easily accessible and is a major artery for travel throughout the region .
Other Roads: The community is also near major thoroughfares such as Branch Avenue (Maryland Route 5) and Indian Head Highway (Maryland Route 210), which connect to the Beltway and other parts of Southern Maryland.

Proximity to Federal Facilities

The neighborhood is noted for being convenient to Capitol Hill, the seat of the U.S. Congress . It is also close to the U.S. Census Bureau headquarters in Suitland and Joint Base Andrews, a major U.S. Air Force installation .

Museums and Cultural Attractions

While Hillcrest Heights itself is primarily a residential community, its location in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area places it within easy reach of some of the world's most renowned museums and cultural institutions . The nation's capital, just a short drive or Metro ride away, offers a wealth of options for visitors .

World-Class Museums in Nearby Washington, D.C.

Residents and visitors to Hillcrest Heights have unparalleled access to the Smithsonian Institution museums, all of which offer free admission .

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: This iconic museum is famous for its vast collections, including the Hope Diamond and its fascinating dinosaur skeletons. It was also a filming location for the movie "Night at the Museum" .
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: Home to the original 1903 Wright Flyer and the Apollo 11 command module, this museum chronicles the history of aviation and space exploration .
National Gallery of Art: This premier art museum features a vast collection from the Middle Ages to the present, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. The museum is comprised of two buildings, the neoclassical West Building and the modern East Building, connected by a underground concourse .

Historic Monuments and Memorials

The National Mall, a sprawling park in downtown Washington, D.C., is the site of numerous iconic monuments and memorials .

Lincoln Memorial: This solemn monument honors the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. It was also the historic site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous "I Have a Dream" speech .
Washington Monument: This 555-foot-tall marble obelisk towers over the city, built to honor George Washington, the first U.S. president .
U.S. Capitol: Home to the United States Congress, this historic building sits on Capitol Hill and offers a stunning view of the National Mall from its east side .
The White House: The official residence and workplace of the President of the United States is a must-see landmark, with public viewing areas on its south side .
Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial: These powerful memorials pay tribute to the Americans who served and sacrificed in these conflicts .
World War II Memorial: This large memorial features 56 granite pillars and a beautiful fountain, honoring the 16 million who served in the U.S. armed forces during World War II .
Thomas Jefferson Memorial: Located on the Tidal Basin, this classical rotunda honors the third U.S. president and primary author of the Declaration of Independence .

Other significant nearby institutions include the Library of Congress, the world's largest library, and the United States National Arboretum, which are also accessible from Hillcrest Heights .

Sport and Recreation

Local Recreation and Parks

Hillcrest Heights offers several local parks and community facilities for residents to enjoy outdoor activities .

Oxon Run Neighborhood Park: Located on Oxon Run Drive, this is a significant green space in the area, featuring a playground, tennis courts, a basketball court, baseball and softball diamonds, picnic areas with grills, and open recreational space .
Hillcrest Heights Community Center: Situated within Oxon Run Neighborhood Park, this center provides amenities such as a gym, a fitness room, a dance room, a computer lab, and a kitchen. It also hosts programs for seniors and youth .
Naylor Road Station: This Washington Metro station serves the area, providing easy access to sporting events and venues throughout the D.C. region .
Fort Dupont Park: A short distance away, this park offers easy-to-moderate hiking trails through forested and open areas, close to the city .
Anacostia River Trail: This trail provides scenic riverside routes for hiking and biking, with opportunities for wildlife viewing .

Sports in the Greater Washington, D.C. Area

As part of the D.C. metropolitan area, Hillcrest Heights is close to a full array of major professional and collegiate sports .

Professional Sports Teams

The region is home to teams in all five major professional sports leagues:

Washington Commanders (NFL): The local NFL team, formerly known as the Washington Redskins and Washington Football Team, plays its home games at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, just a short drive from Hillcrest Heights.
Washington Wizards (NBA): The city's NBA team plays at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C.
Washington Capitals (NHL): The NHL's Capitals also call the Capital One Arena home.
Washington Nationals (MLB): The Nationals, D.C.'s MLB team, play at the picturesque Nationals Park on the Anacostia River waterfront.
D.C. United (MLS): D.C.'s Major League Soccer team plays at Audi Field, also located in the Buzzard Point neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

College Sports

The area is also a hub for college athletics, with several NCAA Division I programs:

University of Maryland Terrapins: Located in College Park, the Terrapins compete in the Big Ten Conference and are a major draw for fans of football, basketball, and other sports.
Georgetown University Hoyas: Known for their men's basketball program, the Hoyas play their home games at the Capital One Arena.
George Washington University Revolutionaries and American University Eagles: These D.C.-based universities also field competitive Division I teams.

Sporting Events and Venues

Capital One Arena: This multipurpose arena in the heart of D.C. is a central hub for sports and entertainment, hosting the Wizards, Capitals, and Georgetown basketball, in addition to major concerts and events.
Northwest Stadium: Home to the Washington Commanders, this large stadium in nearby Landover hosts NFL games and other major events.
Marine Corps Marathon: This world-renowned marathon, often nicknamed "The People's Marathon," is held annually in Washington, D.C., and its route passes many of the nation's most iconic monuments.

Famous Athletes from Hillcrest Heights

Hillcrest Heights is the birthplace of Julian Peterson, a former professional football player . Peterson was a linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for the San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions, earning Pro Bowl honors three times during his career.

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

Nearby Major Medical Centers

Hillcrest Heights is situated in an area with access to some of the nation's leading hospitals and healthcare systems, primarily located in Washington, D.C., and its nearby Maryland suburbs .

MedStar Washington Hospital Center: Located in Washington, D.C., this is one of the largest hospitals in the region and a major teaching hospital. It is renowned for its cardiac care, cancer treatment, and trauma services.
Georgetown University Hospital (MedStar Georgetown): Also in Washington, D.C., this academic medical center is affiliated with Georgetown University's medical school and is known for its specialized care in areas such as oncology, neurology, and transplant surgery .
Children's National Medical Center: A top-ranked pediatric hospital in Washington, D.C., providing comprehensive care for children from the region and beyond .
University of Maryland Capital Region Health: This health system has several hospitals in Prince George's County, including the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center in Largo, Maryland, which provides a full range of medical and surgical services to residents of Hillcrest Heights and surrounding communities.
MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center: Located in Clinton, Maryland, this full-service hospital is another accessible option for residents of southern Prince George's County.

These institutions are generally reachable by car or public transit within 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination .

Education and Universities

Higher Education Institutions

While there are no universities located directly within the Hillcrest Heights CDP, its prime location in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area places it near numerous colleges and universities .

University of Maryland, College Park (UMD): The flagship public university of Maryland is located just a short drive away in College Park. UMD is a major research institution and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. It is particularly well-known for its programs in engineering, computer science, business, and journalism. The university has a strong athletic program, with its Terrapins competing in the Big Ten Conference.
Howard University: A historically black research university in Washington, D.C., Howard is federally chartered and is ranked among the top universities in the nation. It is renowned for its programs in law, medicine, communications, and the arts.
Georgetown University: The oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the United States, Georgetown is located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. It is a world-class research institution famous for its Walsh School of Foreign Service, law school, and medical school .
George Washington University (GWU): A large private research university situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., GWU is known for its strong programs in political science, international affairs, law, and business.
American University (AU): Located in northwest D.C., AU is a private institution known for its School of International Service, public policy programs, and the Kogod School of Business.
Catholic University of America: The national university of the Catholic Church in the United States, located in the Brookland neighborhood of D.C., it is known for its programs in architecture, theology, and law.
University of the District of Columbia (UDC): The only public university in the District of Columbia, UDC is an HBCU offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Primary and Secondary Education

Public school students in Hillcrest Heights are served by Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) . The community is zoned for several local schools:

Elementary Schools: Hillcrest Heights Elementary School and Panorama Elementary School .
Middle School: Benjamin Stoddert Middle School .
High Schools: Most areas are zoned for Potomac High School, while some parts are zoned for Crossland High School .
Special Education: The Jessie B. Mason Regional School, a special education center, is also located in the community .

Historically, the area was home to Holy Family Catholic School, a private K-8 school that operated from 1957 until its closure in 2020 .

Local Cuisine and Dining

Hillcrest Heights and its immediate surroundings offer a variety of dining options that reflect the diverse cultural makeup of the community and the broader D.C. region .

Signature Dishes and Flavors

Given its location in the D.C. area and its proximity to Maryland, Hillcrest Heights is a great place to sample several regional specialties.

Maryland Crab Cakes: A true delicacy of the region, these are pan-seared cakes made with jumbo lump crab meat and very little filler. They are often seasoned with Old Bay and served with a side of fries or coleslaw . This dish can be found in many restaurants throughout the area.
Jerk Chicken: Reflecting the significant Caribbean community in Prince George's County, Jamaican jerk chicken—spiced grilled chicken with a fiery marinade—is a popular and widely available dish in nearby neighborhoods .
DC-style Half-Smoke: This is a must-try when in the D.C. area. A half-smoke is a smoky, coarsely-ground sausage, often served in a bun and topped with chili sauce, onions, and mustard . While famously served at Ben's Chili Bowl in D.C., variations can be found at local eateries across the region.

Dining and Shopping in Hillcrest Heights

The Shops at Iverson, originally opened in 1967 as Iverson Mall, is the primary retail and dining destination within Hillcrest Heights . It holds the distinction of being the first climate-controlled, fully enclosed shopping mall in the Washington, D.C., area . Today, the mall offers a variety of dining options for a quick bite or a casual meal, including:

Chipotle Mexican Grill: For fast-casual burritos and bowls.
Bojangles: A popular fast-food chain known for its fried chicken and biscuits.
Charleys Cheesesteaks: A chain restaurant specializing in Philly-style cheesesteaks and fries.
Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood: A sit-down restaurant offering a popular "cajun boil" experience with seafood like shrimp, crab, and crawfish.
Rio Buffet & Bar: A buffet-style restaurant with a variety of options.
Last Stop: A local eatery in the mall .

Local Parks for Outdoor Dining

For those looking to enjoy a meal outdoors, Oxon Run Neighborhood Park provides picnic areas with grills and tables, making it an ideal spot for a family cookout or a relaxing lunch in a natural setting .

Food Markets in the Region

A short trip into Washington, D.C., or its nearby suburbs opens up even more culinary possibilities.

Eastern Market: Located on Capitol Hill, this historic public market is a vibrant hub for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods from local vendors, especially on weekends .
Union Market: A modern food hall in Northeast D.C., Union Market features dozens of artisanal food stalls, restaurants, and shops, offering everything from gourmet donuts and tacos to fresh seafood and craft beer .